[Harp-L] sm57 and 545

["John F. Potts" <hvyj@xxxxxxx>]

Joe,

The SM 57 has a clean sound with decent bottom end. Cleaner and less  
“textured" than a 545 . It’s been a while since I’ve played through a  
57, but I think it might have a slightly deeper tone than the 545.  
The 57 is  good mic, but, personally, I like the 545 better for  
harp.  To my ear, the sound of 545 has more authority and more  
character.

A  stock SM 57 is not as heavy as a stock 545.  Both have a grill  
design that’s a little inconvenient to grip with a tight cup because  
there’s essentially nothing to hold on to. Blows me Away Productions  
makes a nice “chopped” version of each mic that is shorter and  
lighter which makes them easier to handle.  More ergonomic for harp  
and they can be made with or without an integral volume control.   i  
think the 545 may be more responsive to mic cupping techniques, but i  
don't really remember because it's been a while since i played  
through a 57

Hope this is of some help.

JP